Sydney -- A kaleidoscopic view

The capital city of New South Wales, Australia, Sydney has in incredible charm of its own. A great financial, commercial and educational centre, Sydney is considered as a global city. Though a costly place in terms of cost of living, its standard of living is enviable. Known also as “the Harbour City”, Sydney has various attractions to offer to the visitors.

Among the buildings of historical interest we have Elizabeth Bay House, a fine mansion giving a fine view of the harbour. It retains its magnificence and draws huge crowds on week ends. Elizabeth Farm house is the oldest building and the occupants oversaw the wool trade, an attractive business proposition in those distant times. Hyde Park Barracks constructed during the 2nd, 3rd ad 4th decades of 19th century was originally residential place for the convicts. Subsequently it was utilised as Women’s home and today there are regular exhibitions. It is a historic curiosity. Susanna’s Place and Sydney’s churches come under the category of buildings of the past. Vaucluse Mansion near the harbour is also a mansion of the past, well-preserved even now.

The Bondi Beach is a natural attraction for the tourists and locals alike. As is often known, beaches invariably appeal to the imagination of the people for the fun and frolic to be had there. The Bondi Beach also has a number of restaurants and the tourists can have the whole day at the beach resting, feasting and enjoying the general atmosphere. The Chinese Garden of Friendship is a fascinating place near China Town and the visitor will be moved by the extraordinary repose that can be had in this place breathing free air of nature! The Darling Harbour is also nearby. There are provisions for cruising around the place and ferry services to many beautiful islands nearby.

They will make the tourists experience different atmosphere. Though originally a convict barrack, the present Fort Denison is a nice tourist place with many eateries and relaxing centres. Around Sydney Harbour a number of island parks beckon the tourists and the sheer repose and quietude they offer in the sylvan settings are remarkable.Clark Island, Goat Island, Shark Island are some of those interesting places.

There are at least 15 big museums in city. The Art Gallery NSW leads the group by having nearly 30,000 exhibits. The Australian Museum, Sydney Museum, Sydney Jewish Museum are among these diverse museums offering great information on the evolution of mankind’s quest for aesthetic delights.

For those who visit Royal Botanical Gardens the memory of it will linger very long. It is a great garden with fine setting and repose. The Rose garden section is particularly impressive. As there are plenty of hotels nearby one can have quiet relaxation here after attending to the food requirements. Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and Zoo are also places of great interest which should not be missed by the tourists. Watson’s Bay equally would be savoured by the discerning tourist.

There is a never ending set of activities which draws tourists from other parts of Australia and the rest of the world to Sydney. Diverse occupations like agriculture, horticulture, music, dancing, etc. have their regular annual festivals and people give themselves unto the success of these events whole heartedly.

There is no lack of recreation and relaxation in the night life of Sydney. Great food can be had from a number of restaurants. Good wines add pep to the appetite of the visitors who can enjoy music, dancing, operas and excellent food of their choice.

There are plenty of star accommodation and also for the average tourist. Transporting within the city presents no problem either.

A few days rest in Sydney will pep the system of people who are shackled by work culture round the year.